Over a quarter of Co-operative funeral homes received strange requests like these – with one person even selecting So Long, Farewell from the Sound of Music for their loved one.

Not appropriate

But some people weren’t so lucky and didn’t get away with their strange requests – one in 10 music requests were rejected, mainly because the clergy didn’t think they were appropriate.

The Co-operative Funeralcare’s Lorinda Sheasby said that the choice of song is an important part of the funeral for the bereaved family.

She said: “Today’s tear-jerking chart topper is extremely unlikely to be tomorrow’s funeral classic but it’s quite possible it will figure highly in the months or even years to come.”

“A lot of people still choose non-religious funerals, so they incline towards contemporary songs with which they closely identify.

“Our aim is to make more people aware of the options and choices open to them, so that ultimately the funeral service reflects the life of the individual, which is of great benefit to the bereaved.”

Church of Scotland

Earlier this year, the Church of Scotland slammed mourners for choosing cheesy songs for funerals.

They said it was part of an “unhealthy” denial of death, and that hymns should be chosen as they are more comforting.

Reverend Ron Ferguson said: “This is not healthy. Such songs might seem a good idea down at the pub, but may not feel so appropriate at the actual ceremony.

“Something more traditional, with poetic words which speak of a transcendent love which knows no boundaries to help to bear the true weight of the occasion and bring solace to the grieving congregation.”

The survey was carried out at almost 250 funeral homes that carry out more than 30,000 a year between them.